Morocco Itinerary: 10 days in Morocco

Ready to immerse yourself in the magic of Morocco? This 10 days in Morocco itinerary takes you from the bustling souks of Marrakech to the serene sands of the Sahara. Explore the medieval streets of Fez, wander the fairytale blue alleys of Chefchaouen and walk in the footsteps of Humphrey Bogart in Casablanca. Whatever you're looking for - history, culture or adventure - this trip will give you an authentic taste of one of North Africa's most enchanting destinations. Let's get started!

Why visit Morocco

Why visit Morocco? Firstly, it's a land of contrasts, where vibrant cities, ancient medinas and vast deserts collide to create an unforgettable adventure. Love the culture? Wander through the bustling souks of Marrakech to Fez, admire the medieval architecture of Fez or get lost in the blue streets of Chefchaouen. History buffs will enjoy the stories captured in every corner, from the colonial elegance of Casablanca to the ancient Berber kasbahs.

Prefer adventure? Ride camels across Sahara dunes, hike the rugged Atlas Mountains, or surf the wild Atlantic waves in Taghazout. Seeking relaxation? Soak in a traditional hammam, sip mint tea in tranquil riads, or unwind on Essaouira’s breezy beaches.

Morocco delivers whether you’re after excitement, culture, or a bit of both. From the vibrant souks of Marrakech to the vast, silent dunes of the Sahara, every corner offers something unique. If you're using this as a trip planning guide to Morocco, expect a journey packed with sensory overload — buzzing medinas, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable hospitality. This isn’t just a trip; it’s an experience that stays with you.

10 days in Morocco itinerary

Start in Casablanca, where hints of old-school Hollywood glamour still echo along palm-lined boulevards. From there, wind your way through the blue-washed alleys of Chefchaouen, lose yourself in the medinas of Fez, and ride deep into the Sahara Desert for a night under the stars in a luxury camp.

Wrap up in Marrakech, where snake charmers, rooftop cafés, and palace gardens all compete for your attention. This route ties together some of the best places to visit in Morocco — from ancient cities to sweeping sand dunes—with a strong dose of culture, color, and desert magic.

Day 1: Casablanca

Arrive in Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city and commercial hub. After settling into your accommodations, take the evening to relax or begin exploring. If time allows, stroll along the Corniche, Casablanca’s lively waterfront, or visit Rick’s Café, inspired by the classic film Casablanca. This is a perfect spot to enjoy a drink and soak in the ambiance. For architecture enthusiasts, a quick stop at the Art Deco downtown area offers a glimpse of the city’s unique charm. Take it easy and rest up — your Moroccan adventure is just getting started.

Where to stay in Casablanca

Stay near the Corniche for ocean views and proximity to restaurants or downtown for easy access to the city’s main landmarks and Art Deco architecture.

Day 2: From Casablanca to Chefchaouen via Rabat

Travel time: Casablanca to Rabat (1.5 hours), Rabat to Chefchaouen (4 hours)

Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Hassan II Mosque, an architectural masterpiece perched over the Atlantic Ocean. Then travel to Rabat, Morocco’s elegant capital, where you’ll explore key landmarks, including the Oudaia Kasbah, the Mausoleum of Mohamed V, Hassan Tower, and the Chellah Necropolis. Each site offers fascinating glimpses into Morocco’s royal and cultural history. 

From Rabat, continue north to Chefchaouen, the “Blue Pearl” of Morocco. Arrive by evening and settle into your accommodations, ready to explore this serene and picturesque town the next day.

Where to stay in Chefchaouen

Stay near the medina for easy access to the town’s iconic blue streets, handicraft shops, and local cafés. Accommodations here are often charming riads or guesthouses with a traditional Moroccan feel.

Day 3: Discover Chefchaouen

Spend the third day of your Morocco itinerary discovering Chefchaouen, famous for its dreamy blue-and-whitewashed buildings nestled in the Rif Mountains. Begin with a stroll through the medina, where vibrant textiles and handmade crafts line the narrow alleys. For panoramic views, hike up to the “Spanish” Mosque, perched on a hill overlooking the town. Don’t miss Ras el-Ma, a natural spring and gathering spot for locals.

Take the afternoon to shop for unique souvenirs, enjoy a traditional Moroccan meal, or simply relax in the peaceful atmosphere of a rooftop café. Chefchaouen’s charm is sure to captivate you.

Day 4: Chefchaouen to Fez

Travel time: Chefchaouen to Fez (4.5 hours)

Leave the serene beauty of Chefchaouen behind and travel to Fez, Morocco’s cultural and spiritual capital. After checking into your accommodation, spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant Fez el-Bali (Old Fez), a UNESCO-listed medina filled with winding alleys and bustling souks. Key stops include the Karaouine Mosque, one of the oldest universities in the world, Nejjarine Square with its stunning fountain, and the Royal Palace. Soak up the atmosphere of this historic city, where every corner seems to tell a story.

Where to stay in Fez

Stay in or near the Fez el-Bali medina for the most authentic experience, with easy access to souks and historic landmarks. For a quieter stay, choose the Fez el-Jdid area or the newer Ville Nouvelle.

Day 5: Day trip to Meknes and Volubilis

Travel time: Fez to Meknes (1 hour), Meknes to Volubilis (30 minutes), return to Fez (1.5 hours)

Take a day trip to discover Meknes and the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis. Begin with Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Morocco’s best-preserved Roman site, where mosaics and towering columns offer a glimpse into ancient life. 

Continue to Meknes, an imperial city known for its impressive gates, such as Bab Mansour, and grand sites like the Royal Stables and Moulay Ismail Mausoleum. Stroll through Meknes’ medina and souks before heading back to Fez.

Day 6: Fez to Merzouga

Travel time: Fez to Merzouga (8–9 hours)

Set off early for a scenic drive to Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Cross the Middle Atlas Mountains, passing cedar forests and traditional Berber villages along the way. Stop at the breathtaking Ziz Valley Oasis, where date palms stretch as far as the eye can see. Arrive in Merzouga in the late afternoon, where the towering Erg Chebbi dunes await. End your day with dinner and a campfire under the desert stars in a luxurious desert camp, an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Sahara.

Where to stay in Merzouga

Stay in a luxury desert camp nestled within the Erg Chebbi dunes for a once-in-a-lifetime Sahara experience. Alternatively, base yourself in a guesthouse in Merzouga town for easier access to facilities.

Day 7: Desert adventures in Merzouga

Start the seventh day of this Morocco itinerary with the sunrise over the Sahara dunes. After breakfast, join a camel caravan led by Berber guides for a desert experience. Enjoy a picnic lunch among the dunes and then explore the surrounding area. As evening falls, gather around the campfire for music, storytelling and stargazing.

Day 8: Merzouga to Marrakech via Ait Benhaddou

Travel time: Merzouga to Marrakech (10 hours with stops)

Leave the desert behind and travel through the Sarhro volcanic mountains, stopping at the palm-filled Draa Valley and the village of Agdz. Visit the Ksar of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s been featured in countless films. Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, with its dramatic scenery, and arrive in Marrakech by evening. This long but rewarding journey showcases some of Morocco’s most striking landscapes.

Where to stay in Marrakech

The medina is one of the best places to stay in Marrakech for an immersive experience surrounded by bustling souks and historic landmarks. For more peace and greenery, choose a riad in the quieter Kasbah or Hivernage districts.

Day 9: Explore Marrakech

Dive into the vibrant culture of Marrakech. Start at the Medina, where bustling souks overflow with spices, textiles, and handicrafts. Visit the stunning Bahia Palace, the iconic Koutoubia Minaret, and the lush Majorelle Garden. 

Spend your evening in Djemaa el-Fna square, where street performers, storytellers, and food vendors create an unforgettable atmosphere. Be sure to sample some local dishes at one of the many open-air stalls. Marrakech’s energy and charm make for a perfect finale to your Moroccan adventure.

Day 10: Departure from Marrakech or Casablanca

On your final day, prepare for your departure. Depending on your plans, you can fly out of Marrakech or return to Casablanca for your flight home. If time allows, squeeze in some last-minute shopping or a leisurely breakfast at your riad.

Planning your Morocco itinerary

Planning a trip to Morocco can seem like an adventure in itself, as there are so many incredible places to choose from. Whether you're drawn to the bustling medinas of Marrakech, the serene blue streets of Chefchaouen or the vast dunes of the Sahara Desert, Morocco offers a combination of vibrant culture, stunning scenery and unforgettable experiences. To help you make the most of your trip, here's a look at where to go in Morocco and what each destination has to offer.

Where to go in Morocco

There is so much to see and do in Morocco that choosing where to go can be a painstaking task. To help you narrow down your options, we've compiled a list of the best places to visit in Morocco.

Chefchaouen

One of the prettiest and friendliest towns in Morocco, Chefchaouen sits high in the Rif Mountains. Its medina is filled with pastel-blue houses, perfect for leisurely wandering and snapping photos.

Koutoubia Mosque

Simple yet stunning, the Koutoubia Mosque’s minaret is considered the most beautiful in North Africa. A masterpiece of Almohad architecture, it’s an iconic landmark in Marrakech.

Ouirgane

Nestled in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains, Ouirgane offers scenic hikes, breathtaking views, and outdoor adventures year-round. It’s especially pleasant during the cooler months.

Cascades d’Ouzoud

If you visit only one waterfall in Morocco, make it this one. The Cascades d’Ouzoud is the country’s most dramatic waterfall, with cascading water plunging into pools below. Overhanging cafés offer spectacular views of this thunderous natural wonder.

Fez

Fez is the most complete medieval city in the Arab world. Its labyrinthine streets are filled with ancient souks and historic monuments, including the beautifully adorned Medersa Bou Inania, an architectural gem.

Telouet

The abandoned kasbah of Telouet, once the stronghold of the powerful Glaoui clan, is a haunting reminder of the “Lords of the Atlas” era. Its crumbling walls and intricate interiors evoke the grandeur of a bygone time.

Sidi Ifni

A former Spanish enclave built in the 1930s, Sidi Ifni is a unique Art Deco town. Highlights include its town hall, mosque, and even a lighthouse — all designed in the distinctive Art Deco style.

Casablanca

Casablanca’s colonial architecture blends traditional Moroccan elements with French Art Deco to create a unique style called Mauresque. The city is also home to the impressive Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, which is open to non-Muslim visitors — a rarity in Morocco.

Asilah

A relaxed beach resort, Asilah boasts a charming pastel-washed medina, a renowned international arts festival, and the former palace of a bandit chief. The area also features some of the best beaches along Morocco’s northwest coast.

Volubilis and Moulay Idriss

Explore the incredible Roman ruins of Volubilis, with its well-preserved mosaics and ancient structures. Then, visit nearby Moulay Idriss, a sacred Islamic town and an important pilgrimage site, known for its peaceful atmosphere and historic significance.

• Morocco's coastline and beaches: In the north, Tangier, Asilah, and Larache are the best destinations for exploring Morocco’s beaches. Toward the south, standout coastal spots include El Jadida, Essaouira, and Sidi Ifni, each offering unique seaside charm. Agadir, while more of a package-tour destination, makes for a convenient base to explore nearby attractions.
• Inland Morocco: Morocco's famous medieval cities, Fes and Marrakech, are must-see destinations. Fez impresses with its rich historical monuments, while Marrakech attracts with its lively energy. Rabat and Casablanca, although more modern, are also worthy of a visit, offering a mix of cultural and modern appeal.
• Morocco mountains: The Rif and Atlas mountain ranges offer breathtaking scenery and are surprisingly accessible for trekking. Jebel Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa, is the best choice for adventure trekkers.
• Beyond the Atlas: Travel to the pre-Saharan region to see the stunning contrasts of lush oases and wide desert landscapes. Key oasis towns such as Skoura, Tingir, Zagora, Erfoud and Tata offer a unique combination of palm trees and dramatic desert horizons.

When's the best time to visit Morocco

Although each season in Morocco offers unique experiences, the best times to visit Morocco are spring (April through June) and fall (September through November).

During this time, the weather is pleasantly warm - perfect for exploring historic cities such as Marrakech to Fez and Casablanca, as well as outdoor activities in the Atlas Mountains.

Meanwhile, summer (July and August) is ideal for beach lovers, especially in coastal cities such as Essaouira and Agadir.

The cool winter (December through February) is suitable for cultural excursions in the cities, and snow is possible in the mountains. Fewer tourists allow for a more authentic experience.

Get even more useful information for your trip with our Morocco travel tips.

How to get to Morocco

Unless you’re arriving by cruise ship from France, Spain, or Gibraltar, the easiest way to travel to Morocco is by flying into either Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport or Marrakech’s Menara Airport. Airfares are typically highest during the holiday season (Christmas and New Year) and the peak summer months of July and August. Weekend flights can also be pricier. To score the best deals, it’s always a good idea to book as far in advance as possible.

Traveling to Morocco from the US

For travelers from the US Royal Air Maroc and operate direct flights to Casablanca from New York. Alternatively, indirect flights with European carriers are available via their hubs in cities like Paris or Madrid.

Traveling to Morocco from Europe

Royal Air Maroc offers daily flights from Heathrow to Casablanca, while British Airways flies from Gatwick to Marrakech. Indirect flights are also available from most British or Irish airports, connecting via London or European cities such as Paris and Amsterdam.

How to get around in Morocco

Traveling around Morocco is relatively straightforward, with plenty of options depending on your budget, schedule, and level of comfort. From renting a car for more flexibility to using the country’s extensive public transportation network, there’s a travel solution for everyone.

Renting a car

Renting a car is the best option if you’re looking to explore Morocco at your own pace, especially if your Morocco itinerary includes more remote destinations like the High Atlas Mountains, the Sahara Desert, or coastal villages. Roads in Morocco are generally in good condition, and major highways connect most cities. However, driving in urban areas like Marrakech or Casablanca can be chaotic, so be prepared for heavy traffic and local driving quirks.

Public transportation

Morocco has a reliable rail network that connects major towns in the north, making train travel a convenient option. The rest of the country is well-served by a network of both government-operated and private bus companies. However, buses can sometimes be slow and overcrowded, especially during peak travel times.

For shorter trips, Morocco’s grand taxis are a popular choice. If you prefer to have the taxi to yourself, you’ll need to pay the equivalent of six individual seats, as these taxis typically wait to fill all spots before departing.

Costs for a Morocco vacation

A trip to Morocco can be surprisingly affordable, with options to fit almost any budget. For accommodations, budget travelers can find dorm beds or simple guesthouses for as little as $10–$20 per night. Mid-range options, such as traditional riads or comfortable hotels, typically cost between $50 and $100 per night. If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, boutique riads, high-end hotels, or desert camps can range from $150 to $400 or more per night, depending on the location and season.

When it comes to food, Morocco offers excellent value. A meal from a street vendor or a casual local restaurant often costs just $3–$10, while a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant might set you back $15–$30. Splurging on fine dining in a high-end restaurant can cost $50 or more, but the experience is worth it, especially for Moroccan specialties like tagine or pastilla.

Transportation is also affordable. Trains connecting major cities are reasonably priced, with second-class tickets costing $10–$20 for a few hours of travel. Long-distance buses are even cheaper, though less comfortable. Taxis are a common option for shorter trips, but for grand taxis (shared taxis between towns), be prepared to pay for multiple seats if you want the vehicle to yourself.

Do you need a visa for Morocco

Full passport holders from the US, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, or any EU country do not need a visa to enter Morocco and can stay for up to 90 days. However, it’s always a good idea to check visa requirements before your trip, as policies can change. Upon arrival, you’ll be required to complete a form with personal details, your profession, and the purpose of your visit.

Visa Extensions

If you want to extend your stay in Morocco, you’ll need to apply for a residency permit at the Bureau des Étrangers. However, this process can be very complicated and time-consuming. It requires opening a Moroccan bank account with a minimum deposit of 20,000 dirhams and obtaining an Attestation de Résidence. To avoid the bureaucracy, many visitors leave Morocco for a short trip — often to Spain — and re-enter the country through a different border crossing to reset their stay.

Is Morocco safe

Morocco is a generally safe country for travelers, and millions of tourists visit each year with no problems. Violent crime is rare, and most trips go smoothly. However, like anywhere else, petty theft and small-scale fraud can occur, especially in busy tourist areas. Common sense precautions, such as securing your belongings and being aware of your surroundings, will help ensure a peaceful trip. Women traveling alone may encounter unwanted attention, so dress modestly and be firm but polite when refusing advances - this will help minimize discomfort.

Avoiding scams in Morocco

While Morocco is a safe destination, travelers should be mindful of common scams in tourist hotspots like Marrakech, Fez, and Casablanca. Unlicensed “guides” may offer unsolicited tours and then demand high fees — book only licensed guides through official channels. In markets, vendors may inflate prices for tourists, so don’t hesitate to haggle politely. 

Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help, such as directions, as they may ask for money afterward. For taxis, always insist on using the meter or agree on a price upfront. With a little awareness and caution, you can avoid scams and focus on enjoying your trip.